leading cause of preventable premature death in our society
The Human Costs of Tobacco Use
kills smokers
second hand smoke is a big issue as well
Cardiovascular Disease
1/5 of deaths due to this were from smoking
2.5-fold increased risk of fatal coronary heart disease and nonfatal myocardial infarction in women
Cancer
85% of lung cancers
no evidence of a threashold level of sxposure
greatest risk of oral cancer in people who smoke and drink regularly
30% of new cervical cancers
Lung Disease
leading cause
Children and Adolescents
babies weigh 200g less and have a 33% increased risk of stillbirths and early neonatal deaths
most educated smoke the least
Women
lung cancer more prevelant than breast cancer
oral contraceptives and smoking considerably increases the risk of dying of cardiovascular disease
Minorities
generally higher rates of smoking amoung minorities
The Elderly
20% of cataracts are attributable to smoking
Economic Costs of Tobacco Use
consumption depends on economic events (war)
may not be so great because most smokers don’t live to get their social security benefits
smoking employees work 6.5 days less per year and make 6 more medical visits per year
most civilian fires caused by smoking
The Tobacco Industry
remain very profitable
Tobacco Advertising and Marketing
increased advertising since media ban
especially in sports
advertising target at children
Tobacco Exportation
very large exports (although only 8% of production)
no foreign warnings
The Tobacco Lobby
very effective
lots of money
The Campaign to Prevent Tobacco Use
people don’t want to change
lots of money and advertising for smoking
lowest taxes and regulations in the US
Somking Restrictions in the Workplace and in Public
dramatic increases
Bans on Advertising and Sponsorship by Tobacco Companies
second most advertised product after cars
Restrictions on Sales of Tobacco to Minors
80-90% start as minors
Tobacco Subsidies
tax-deduction of advertising
Tobacco Taxes
10% price rise gives a 4% reduction in use